Soccer As Moving Meditation

October 12, 2011.

Soccer season kicked off a few weeks ago. If you want to find anybody in our little town of Hermon, Maine (population 3,405) on the next 8 Saturdays, head to the school field. Parents, grandparents, brothers, sisters, teachers, neighbors and fans gather to watch and support the children. Everyone cheers boisterously for each goal, no matter which team scores. Good sportsmanship and humor reign in the stands and on the field.

Boys and girls play on the same team. I am amazed by how many inches they grew over the summer. Boys whose heads used to stop at my waist now almost reach my nose. Girls who were flat-chested at school’s end now wear training bras. Boys and girls play on the same team and I marvel at how well they cooperate and give each other strategic advice, hugs and high fives whenever a team mate has blocked a goal, scored a goal, or needs support

I am intrigued by how similar the soccer practices and games are to my moving meditations. Although I will bet that not one of the coaches would identify themselves as meditation teachers, they urge their mini-athletes to be present in the now. Here’s how! I hear the coaches chanting, “Pay attention. Stay awake. Connect to the earth before you kick the ball. Don’t pay attention to the goalie, focus on the ball.” I feel and sense the concentrated intention of the players to be aware, and present. Furthermore, I watch as they move up and down the field without getting attached to who scores or even who wins. Detachment bring delight.

While other spectators catch up on their friendships that summer interrupted, I watch the moving meditation before me and give thanks for all who participate. I am grateful to be in the midst of flowing awareness where nothing feels forced and everyone is grounded in their bodies and also ready to be present for the unexpected. For sure, this sport is an essential life skill that gifts the players and their fans with focused awareness, appreciation, and community.